UKHomes4Heroes

An update from the Elkins Day Care Centre

In our last update, we reported on our support for UKHomes4Heroes for homeless ex service personnel. We highlighted the work we carried out converting a derelict 1970s snooker room for UKHomes4Heroes to create the Elkins Day Care Centre. Creating a modern, clean, calming and welcoming day centre for the ex-servicemen and women to visit. Ex-service personnel can eat, drink, watch TV, play pool, use the gym sit and read, chat, use the IT facilities or have therapy in the treatment room.

We are proud to report the day care centre has been a great success and we continue to support this cause. We love to receive regular updates on their events and what difference the centre makes to these commendable people, who sometimes need a helping hand after their service has ended.

This year, we donated £3,000 raised from our Fun Day. This will go a long way in helping our homeless heroes sleeping rough on our streets. UKHomes4Heroes offer life lines like regular outreach teams. These teams operate from feeding stations across the UK and supply Ex-service personnel with warm clothing, sleeping bags, etc. The money will help with welfare or any past bereavement and housing issues that they might have.

We Like to think that together; we can make a difference.

Robert Traynor

Robert Traynor has been a member of our team at A & E Elkins for over a year now and he has an incredible story.

In 1979, Robert joined the Scots Guards as a fresh faced 16-year-old. In 1982, he was made Lance Corporal whilst serving in Northern Ireland, in charge of a team of 8 Soldiers. By 1990, he was a sergeant, commanding a platoon heading into desert storm during the Gulf War.

In 1992, Robert was seconded to the United Nations peace keeping force in Bosnia. Following this, he guarded the Queen and the Royal Family’s residences before heading back to Northern Ireland for a second tour of duty.

Sadly, in 2001, he was diagnosed with PTSD and left the army.

Robert went through very hard times and fell into depression. Finding it hard to get a job with one setback after another.

Robert removed himself from society, living on the streets, where he found it hard to communicate with anyone. UKHomes4Heroes befriended Robert over time and helped get him back on his feet. Robert is now working with us and is working through his Health and Safety course. The future is looking bright.

Robert has won many medals throughout his life and the obstacles he has had to overcome since leaving the army are a testament to his strength. We are proud to have him as a member of our staff.